Nestled snugly in the relatively undisturbed wilderness of Louisiana is an expansive tract of lush farmland. While Louisiana is not known for its topography, it more than makes up for it with its ability to preserve areas that can help you reconnect with nature, areas that make you feel at home as soon as your feet touch the ground. This secluded treasure is going to come to life this 4th of July Weekend, in the form of the first-ever Independence Fest. The inaugural showcasing of this event series will attempt to create a festival atmosphere that Louisiana, and the surrounding areas, have never seen before. This staff behind this festival have decided to sponsor the “Chase Your Dreams Foundation,” which was founded on the principle of helping those with disabilities achieve their dreams as well as helping them become independent and productive members of society. In addition to an extensive lineup of local talent, Independence Fest will host a variety of activities that are designed to remind you about the bliss of being a child, in the midst of a grown-up environment. If you’re looking to make some wonderful memories this upcoming holiday, for a very affordable price, look no further than Independence Fest.

I was fortunate enough to catch up with Independence Fest’s founding partner and spokesman, Brandon Hebert, to discuss his vision and his plans for the future.

Every idea comes from somewhere. What inspired Independence Fest?

I’ve been thinking about throwing a festival for some time now. I’ve been to a bunch of them. I’ve helped out and partnered with several others and I decided it was time to bring something new to the table. So I put on my thinking cap and started brainstorming about what was missing from the musical landscape in Louisiana, and it dawned on me. There aren’t any major EDM and DJ-centric camping festivals.

How did you develop the partnership with the “Chase Your Dreams Foundation?”

The founder, Chase Treadway, is one of my best friends. Seeing what Chase went through after his accident and how determined he was, to not only help himself but to help others, was really inspiring. I’m extremely proud of the impact the CYDF is having on those that have experienced an injury or illness that would normally take a drastic toll on their dignity and self of self-worth. They’re helping people learn how to feel better about themselves and be able take care of themselves. Can you have a more awesome cause than that?

What kind of atmosphere are you hoping to create?

I want what everybody who is throwing an event wants. I want a fun, clean, and affordable good time to be had by everybody who’s attending. I figured that when you combine the excitement of camping with: good music, water slides, beach volleyball, and international gourmet food vendors, you can’t really have a bad time. In order to maintain the cleanliness aspect we are asking all those that attend to take the litter and recycling pledge seriously. We want to leave the grounds as we found them. It’s the least we can do to preserve it for next year and all future events

Is there a particular demographic you’re hoping to capture with this event?

This festival is for everybody. If you like DJs, BASS, and having a good time, then you’ll be in the right place. One thing that normally stops people from being able to make events is the cost, so I addressed that right out of the gate. I made sure that this event would be extremely affordable for everyone, while not compromising the amenities or the experience.